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The summer of '26 is about to start. Come join us as we take a hike to GERTRUDE'S NOSE at Minnewaska State Park Preserve. THE TRAILS ARE MODERATE INTENSITY. NO BEGINNERS FOR THIS HIKE!

About Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Located in Ulster County, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. The park features numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, incising sheer cliffs and ledges opening to beautiful views, clear streams cut into valleys, 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike and simply enjoy. And, all this within an hour and a half drive from New York City.

GETTING THERE: Trailways bus out of the Port Authority Bus Terminal that goes to New Paltz. It's about a 90-minute bus ride.

  • The 7AM NYC bus arrives in New Paltz at 8:35am. Ticket can be purchased in advance at this link: https://trailways.com/
  • Bus arrives at New Paltz at 8:35am. The bus terminal is located at 139 Main Street, New Paltz.
  • Once New Paltz we’ll then Uber over to the park. It’s about a 20-min ride from bus station to Lake Minnewaska Visitors Center

AGENDA: Once we arrive at Minnewaska State Park, we'll hike the Gertrude's Nose trail.

  • Overview: The hike to Gertrude’s Nose is hands down one of the best hikes in the region, with beautiful footpaths and dramatic views along gleaming white cliffs.
  • Gertrude’s Nose? “An odd name for a unique place, the Nose is a great wedge-like mass of conglomerate left between Palmaghatt Ravine and the main cliff scarp south of Millbrook Mountain.” – Scenes and Walks in the Northern Shawangunk
  • Hike Length: 7.0 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
  • TRAIL MAP:
    https://parks.ny.gov/documents/parks/MinnewaskaMinnewaskaStateParkPreserveTrailMap.pdf

HIKE INTENSITY: This is a Moderate intensity hike. You don't have to be an athlete to complete the hike but you must be able to finish hike with no problems. NO BEGINNERS FOR THIS HIKE.

PACE: Hiking pace will be LEISURELY AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. We will have lunch, water and snack breaks as needed; as well as taking time to savor the sights and sounds of nature, take photos, hug some trees, and most importantly, socialize with your fellow hikers. NO FAST HIKERS!

THE IMPORTANT STUFF:

  • Dress in non-cotton layers.
  • Wear appropriate shoes suitable for hiking.
  • Bring sunscreen, bug spray, head cover, and whatever else you need
  • Bring at least 3 liters of liquid to stay hydrated.
  • Bring lunch and snacks for yourself.
  • Bring positive attitude and a smile goes a long way.
  • No whiners, no complainers, no drama, no fast hikers!

DURATION: This is an all-day hike.

APRES HIKE: there are many fine dining options in New Paltz. We'll find a place to sit and eat and drink and get social.

RETURN BUS: There is a 6:10PM bus back to NYC by 7:40PM (depending on traffic).

WEATHER: This Meetup is rain or shine!

LIABILITY WAIVER: come prepared. Participate at your own risks. Hold no one liable etc. etc.

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